Montgomery County Encourages Septic System Awareness During ‘SepticSmart Week,’ Sept. 15–19

For Immediate Release: Friday, September 12, 2025

Montgomery County is reminding homeowners with septic systems to take a few minutes to learn more about their systems-where they are located, how they work, and how to maintain them properly. This awareness campaign is part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) 13th annual SepticSmart Week, which takes place Sept. 15-19.

Properly maintaining a septic system helps protect public health, preserve the environment, and avoid costly repairs for homeowners.

In Montgomery County, approximately 20,000 properties rely on septic systems for wastewater disposal, and the Department of Permitting Services (DPS) is responsible for conducting soil testing and issuing permits for septic systems.

"A septic system is a vital part of a home's infrastructure," said County Executive Marc Elrich. "It is important for homeowners to know where their system is located and how to take care of it. Proper maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs and protecting the environment. It's also important to recognize when your system is failing."

A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment structure commonly used in homes that are not connected to a public sewer system. It safely treats wastewater from household sources, including bathtubs, dishwashers, showers, sinks, toilets, and washing machines, and returns it to the groundwater.

The system has two main components:

• A septic tank collects and holds wastewater, allowing solids to settle and begin breaking down.
• The drain field filters the liquid wastewater through the soil.

"DPS has an outstanding team of environmental health specialists who are readily available to help customers with any questions or concerns about their septic systems and the permitting process," said DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan. "Our permitting records for septic systems go back to the 1950s, and we can help homeowners locate these records if needed."

Visit the DPS website to learn more about how a septic system works. In addition to an overview section, frequently asked questions and answers, and a process guide, an online brochure, "A Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems," provides tips about proactive care of a septic system and how it works. The Guide is also available in Spanish.

The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) website offers additional information and guidance on septic system care and maintenance.

"Proper upkeep of private septic systems and water wells plays a critical role in safeguarding public health and protecting our local waterways and groundwater," said DEP Acting Director Jeff Seltzer. "When these systems fail, contaminants can enter the environment, posing risks to people, animals, and entire ecosystems."

For additional resources about maintaining a septic system, visit the SepticSmart webpage, which includes some of the following tips:

• Pump your tank regularly. Have your septic tank pumped every three to five years to prevent system failure.
• Think at the sink: Avoid pouring grease, oil, or harsh chemicals down the drain.
• Flush responsibly: Never flush non-degradable items like wipes, paper towels, or feminine hygiene products.
• Shield your field: Keep your drain field clear and don't park, drive, or plant trees or shrubs on it.
• Use water wisely: Avoid overloading your system by spacing out water-heavy activities like bathing, laundry, and dishwashing.

To report a septic system problem or failure, contact the DPS Well and Septic section by calling MC 311 or 240-777-0311. Financial assistance may be available through the Bay Restoration Fund for those who need to replace a failing septic system. DPS staff can provide more information about these grants.

Visit the DPS website for more information about septic systems and other online services, including how to apply for permits, schedule inspections, check the status of a permit, request records, file a property complaint, and schedule a design consultation.

DPS Well and Septic Manager Heidi Benham discussed the importance of septic system maintenance on the Montgomery Al Dia radio show earlier this month. For more information, watch this new DPS video now posted on the County's YouTube page.

DPS offices are located at 2425 Reedie Drive, 7th Floor, in Wheaton. The customer service lobby is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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